Sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. Structurally more stable than the acid itself and more common in formulations. Molecular weight determines behaviour: high-MW (> 1 MDa) holds water at the surface, low-MW (< 50 kDa) penetrates deeper. Cosmetics typically use a mix of MWs. A baseline moisturising active across all segments.
Topical application
AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.
Moisturising effect is demonstrated in dozens of RCTs. When applied topically it retains water in the stratum corneum and visually plumps fine lines. Efficacy depends on molecular weight and concentration (typically 0.1-2%). Does not replace barrier lipids but combines well with them.
Sodium Hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. Structurally more stable than the acid itself and more common in formulations. Made by bacterial fermentation of Streptococcus equi on animal-free media. Molecular forms. High molecular weight (HMW, >1 MDa) holds water at the skin surface and forms a film. Low molecular weight (LMW, 50-300 kDa) penetrates the epidermis and stimulates collagen synthesis through TLR-4 signaling (Hwang 2018). Ultra-low MW (ULMW, <50 kDa) penetrates deeper and at high concentrations may trigger a pro-inflammatory response on dry skin. Quality products use multi-MW blends. Where applied. Serums and creams (0.1-2%), masks, patches, post-procedure formulations after laser and peels. In Spain – La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5, Vichy Mineral 89, Bioderma Hydrabio Serum, Isdin Hyaluronic Concentrate, Sesderma Hidraderm Hyal. Evidence base. Pavicic 2011 in 76 women showed 30-40% hydration gain over 8 weeks with a multi-MW blend at 0.1% versus single-MW HMW. Bukhari 2018 (meta-analysis of 18 RCTs) confirmed effects on TEWL and elasticity. Sodium hyaluronate does not replace a cream – it traps moisture, an occlusive on top is mandatory. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Topical allergies are extremely rare. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Applied at any stage on any area, including face, neck, breast, abdomen. One of the few actives without pregnancy restrictions. Dry-skin hack. Apply to damp skin (after cleansing, toner, thermal water). On dry skin in dry air it works in reverse and pulls water from the dermis.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeCategory
Moisturizing
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Fungal acne safe
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Perioral dermatitis safe
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Post-procedure recovery
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Post-sunburn repair
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The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Sodium Hyaluronate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Sodium Hyaluronate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.
The INCI name is Sodium Hyaluronate. It may also appear as: Sodium Salt of Hyaluronic Acid, Гиалуронат натрия.
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